Experiences buying used cartridges

@harold-not-the-barrel

I bought 3 HQ MM carts from V. Simakov of grgaudio, very happy with all.

Bought two as well, no problem with communication, used to talk over the phone a few times, my cartridge is still OK after 4 years, but the one i bought for a friend turned to be deffected pretty soon (Sony XL55). My friend shipped it to SoundSmith and they said the stylus is worn out and the coil is dead and must be fully repaired, the cost of the service alone is about $450-500. As always (confirmed by many agon buyers) Victor’s statement was like "200-300 hrs of use" in the listing which is not true. A bit tricky seller when the listying is not on ebay.

@vegasears 

Buying a used phono cartridge for me would be like buying a used Tooth Brush!

Do you feel the same about used records? 

Buying a used phono cartridge for me would be like buying a used Tooth Brush!

Except that versus a good toothbrush: a good cartridge is 100s of times more expensive, 100s of times more durable (if properly used), can often be completely rebuilt to factory specs for 50-60% the cost of new (depending on manufacturer), and you don’t stick it in yer mouth (depending on your listening habits) -- so bacteria/hygiene isn’t a health issue there.

Buying used is a high risk/ high reward scenario, but buying from a trustworthy hobbyist minimizes the risk. Unlike buying a used toothbrush, it’s not altogether senseless. That said, there needs to be a significant discount in play -- it doesn’t make sense to buy an ubiquitous "50 - 300 hours MAX" used cart for only 35% off list.

chaster,

I am willing to gamble, lets say 5 bucks on a used LP or CD but not hundreds. I have close friends who buy used cartridges and they have never had an issue. It’s just not my cup of tea.

You can buy an original Uriah Heep UK Vertigo LP or UK Castle reissue. Your money your choice.